Parlor game

ABSTRACT

A parlor entertainment system includes an entertainment unit, and information management system, and an entertainment information unit. The information management system includes a processor operatively connected to a database. The entertainment information unit is in communication with at least one of the information management system and the entertainment unit. The entertainment information unit is operable to input information regarding the operation of the entertainment unit into the database.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/737,054, entitled “Improved Parlor Game,” filed Dec. 16, 2003, which claims priority benefits from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/434,222 entitled “Improved Pool Table,” filed Dec. 17, 2002.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/073,486, entitled “Combination Jukebox and Game,” filed Feb. 11, 2002, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/309,400 filed May 11, 1999, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 08/975,612, filed Nov. 21, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,930,765, issued Jul. 27, 1999; which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 08/638,022, filed Apr. 25, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,398, issued Dec. 8, 1999. Further, application Ser. No. 10/073,486 is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/502,875, filed Feb. 11, 2000; which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/076,849, filed May 12, 1998; which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 08/584,253, filed Jan. 11, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,781,889; which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 08/268,782, filed Jun. 30, 1994, now abandoned; which is a continuation of application Ser. No. 07/846,707, filed Mar. 6, 1992, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,355,302. In addition, application Ser. No. 10/073,486 is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/426,047, filed Oct. 25, 1999.

This application also claims priority benefits of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/660,487, entitled “System and Method of Organizing a Predictions-Based Game Through an Electronic Gaming System,” filed Mar. 10, 2005. All of the aforementioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to entertainment systems, and more particularly to a system for, among other things, remotely activating an entertainment unit (including, but not limited to, a pool table, dart machine, or the like), and inputting information about the operation of an entertainment unit (for example, the game players and game score) into a computer database. Embodiments of the present invention also include a method of initiating operation of an entertainment unit and a method of inputting information about the operation of an entertainment unit into a computer database.

Coin operated pool tables (or pay-for-play pool tables) are widely used for a variety of pool games, such as eight ball, nine ball, snooker, and the like. Typically, a player hits a cue ball with a pool cue in an attempt to knock the cue ball into solid-colored and striped numbered balls. Depending on the rules of the particular game, a player “scores” by sinking the appropriate balls into pockets of the pool table.

In order to begin playing a game of pool, a player typically inserts coins into a coin acceptor located on the pool table. Once an amount sufficient to play a game is inserted, a holding rack that retains the colored balls within the pool table is opened, thereby allowing a player to access the balls. The balls are then placed on the playing surface of the pool table in order to begin play.

Typical pay-for-play tables only include a coin acceptor, but not a bill acceptor. This is because the use of a bill acceptor requires increased power and space. One of the obstacles to providing power to such bill acceptors is that most pool tables require unobstructed access from all sides of the table for game play. Further, a pool table usually requires a generous amount of floor space surrounding a table for game play. Electrical wires or cabling passing from the pool table to a wall outlet are obtrusive and pose tripping problems.

Additionally, typical pool games are manually scored. Scoring games manually, however, may be inexact due to human error. Further, keeping track of scoring represents one more thing to be cognizant of during a game, and may be distracting to a player.

In addition, it is often necessary to manually schedule league matches between various individuals and/or teams, and to manually assign the particular game unit or table for each match. This can be time consuming for bar, arcade, or game parlor staff. Substantial paperwork and human resources may be devoted to tabulating and storing the results from a plurality of games, for example to generate league standings, and to display the results to interested persons. Similarly resources may also have to be devoted to coordinating and scheduling use of available game units during busy times.

Thus, a need exists for a system and method of activating a pay-for-play pool table that is more efficient and user-friendly. Further, a need exists for a system and method of automatically scoring a pool game. In addition, a need exists for a system and method of electronically receiving and storing game scores from a plurality of tables, which allows players and league organizers convenient access to scoring information.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide a pool table system that allows a user to play pool upon receipt of a playing fee. The system includes a pool table having a playing surface, rails, pockets, a ball holding rack that retains pool balls, and an activation-sensing unit, and a remote activation assembly having a processor operatively connected to a currency acceptor, which is adapted to receive coins and/or bills.

The remote activation assembly transmits an activation signal that is received by the activation-sensing unit within the pool table when the processor detects receipt of the playing fee, and wherein said activation-sensing unit receives the activation signal. The remote activation assembly may be mounted on a wall, or it may be supported by a floor. Additionally, the remote activation assembly and activation-sensing unit may include antennae that wirelessly receive power signals from a commercial radio station.

The activation sensing-unit may be operatively connected to a gate positioned at an end of the holding rack. The activation-sensing unit acts to open or unlock the gate when the activation-sensing unit receives the activation signal. The currency acceptor is adapted to receive coins and bills.

Embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for initiating game play on a pay-for-play pool table having a playing surface, rails, pockets, a ball holding rack that retains pool balls, and an internal activation-sensing unit. The method includes depositing a game play fee into a remote activation assembly, remotely transmitting an activation signal once the game play fee is deposited, receiving the activation signal at the internal activation-sensing unit, and providing access to the pool balls upon the receiving step.

Embodiments of the present invention also provide a pool table system that is configured to automatically score a pool-based game. The system includes a pool table having a playing surface, rails, pockets, and pool balls, wherein each of the pool balls includes a detectable feature. The system also includes a scoring processor, and a ball detection sensor in communication with the scoring processor.

The ball detection sensor is positioned such that the pool balls pass by the ball detection sensor after the pool balls enter the pockets. The ball detection sensor detects the detectable feature as the pool balls pass by the ball detection sensor. The ball detection sensor relays a data signal to the scoring processor as the pool balls pass by said detection sensor.

Each of the detectable features outputs a unique signal for each of the pool balls. The embedded detectable device may include at least one of an antenna, microchip, metallic security tag, magnet, and an ultrasonic emitter. Optionally, the detectable feature may be a unique marking, such as a bar code, number, color scheme/configuration or the like, that is detected by an optical sensor. The scoring processor distinguishes among the pool balls based on the data signals received.

Embodiments of the present invention also provide a method of automatically scoring a pool-based game played on a pool table having a playing surface, rails, pockets, and pool balls having embedded detectable devices therein. The method includes locating a ball detection sensor at a position where the pool balls pass after the pool balls enter the pockets, detecting the embedded detectable devices within the pool balls as the pool balls pass by the ball detection sensor, and relaying a data signal based on the detecting to a scoring processor.

Additionally, embodiments of the present invention provide a method of manufacturing a pool game system that is configured to automatically score a pool-based game, wherein the pool game system comprises a pool table having pool balls positioned over a playing surface bounded by rails and pockets. The method includes embedding detectable devices within the pool balls, wherein each of the pool balls includes one embedded detectable device that outputs a signal that is unique from output signals of other detectable devices embedded in other pool balls. The method also includes disposing ball-detecting sensors configured to detect the detectable devices at a position where the pool balls after the pool balls enter the pockets.

Further, embodiments of the present invention provide a pay-for-play parlor game system that enables game play upon receipt of a playing fee. The system includes a game unit having a playing surface and an activation-sensing unit, and a remote activation assembly. The remote activation assembly includes a processor operatively connected to a currency acceptor. The remote activation assembly transmits an activation signal that is received by the activation-sensing unit when the processor detects receipt of the playing fee. The activation-sensing unit is operable to allow a user to initiate game play when the activation-sensing unit receives the activation signal. The game unit may be a pool table, a foosball table, an air hockey table, a basketball-based game, a football based game, a hockey-based game (such as table hockey), a prediction-based game (such as a “fantasy” football or baseball league) and other games commonly found in bars and arcades.

Additional embodiments of the present invention include a system comprising an entertainment unit, an information management system having a processor operatively connected to an input device, an entertainment information unit in communication with the information management system and/or at least one entertainment unit, wherein the input device is operable to input information regarding the operation of entertainment units into a database operatively connected to the information management system. To provide more efficient tracking of game score information, the computer database may be networked to the internet, to provide up-to-date game result and scheduling information. The input device may be located at the game unit, to allow remote transmission of information (such as match scores) to a centralized computer database. The input device may include, but is not limited to, a standard computer keyboard, keypad, or touchscreen.

Embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for initiating operation of an entertainment or game unit. The method includes selecting an entertainment unit from a plurality of entertainment units; remotely transmitting an activation signal to allow game play, receiving the activation signal at the internal activation-sensing unit, and providing access to the entertainment unit upon the receiving step.

Embodiments of the present invention also provide a system that allows users to electronically input information about the operation of an entertainment unit, such as game results. The electronically input game result information may be combined with information about the operation of other systems (such as other game scores) and/or results from previous and future games, for example, to determine standings and results for a league. Further, user-inputted game information may be combined with game result information automatically scored.

Embodiments of the present invention also provide a method of electronically storing game score information from a plurality of entertainment units, either by storing manually inputted information by a user and/or by storing game score information automatically calculated from an entertainment unit that is equipped with an automatic scoring system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a simplified representation of a pool system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a remote activation assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a flow chart for a method of activating a pool system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a pool ball according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a simplified representation of a ball return and scoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a pool table system that is capable of automatically scoring a game of pool according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a remote activation assembly according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic representation of a system for remote activation of entertainment units (such as pool tables, dart machines, prediction-based games, or the like), optionally including the ability to report information about the operation of the entertainment unit (such as game score information) to a computer database.

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings, certain embodiments. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the attached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a simplified representation of a pool system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 10 includes a pool table 12 supported by a floor 14, and a remote activation assembly 16 mounted on a wall 18. Optionally, the remote activation assembly 16 may be an upright, stand-alone unit supported by the floor 14, or mounted to the underside of the pool table 12.

The pool table 12 may be a standard pool table including a felt playing surface (not shown) bounded by rails 20 (or bumpers) and pockets 22. As shown in FIG. 1, a cue ball 24 is positioned on the playing surface. The pool table 12 also includes a ball retention compartment, or holding rack, 26. The ball retention compartment 26 is connected to the pockets 22 through internal pathways (not shown) that allow numbered striped and colored balls 28 to pass from the pockets 22 into the ball retention compartment 26. A gate 30 is positioned at an outlet 32 of the ball retention compartment 26.

The gate 30 is normally in a closed position so that the balls 28 are retained within the ball retention compartment 26 and not allowed to pass into the ball delivery passage 34 (which is within the main body of the pool table 12). The ball retention compartment 26 may be sloped slightly downward, so that when the gate 30 is opened, the balls 28 pass into the ball delivery passage 34 by way of gravity. The ball delivery passage 34 is connected to an access area 36, at which a player may remove the balls 28 from the pool table 12 and proceed to place them on the playing surface in order to play pool.

The gate 30 is operatively connected to an opening device 38, such as a solenoid, latch, clasp, or the like, that is configured to open and close the gate 30. The opening device 38 is in turn electrically connected to an activation-sensing unit 40 through wiring 42. The activation-sensing unit 40 includes a processor 44, or other such device capable of sensing a received signal and acting thereupon, electrically connected to a receiving antenna 46 and the opening device 38. The activation-sensing unit 40 wirelessly receives signals, such as radio frequency (RF) signals from the remote activation assembly 16 by way of the receiving antenna 46. The processor 44 analyzes the received signals to determine whether to open the gate 30 in order to allow play to begin. That is, the remote activation assembly 16 sends an activation signal to the activation-sensing unit 40 instructing the activation-sensing unit 40 to open the gate 30 to allow players to gain access to the balls 28 through the access area 36. If the remote activation assembly 16 does not send an activation signal to the activation-sensing unit 40, the gate 30 remains closed.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a remote activation assembly 16. The remote activation assembly 16 includes a main body 48 housing a central processing unit 50 therein. The central processing unit (CPU) 50 is electrically connected to a bill acceptor 52, a coin acceptor 54, a play activation button 56, and a transmitting antenna 58, through internal wiring 60. While the transmitting antenna 58 is shown external to the main body 48, the transmitting antenna 58 may be housed within the main body 48 (similarly, the receiving antenna 46 of the activation-sensing unit 40 may be housed within a main body of the activation-sensing unit 40).

The remote activation assembly 16 is powered by way of the transmitting antenna 58 receiving radio signals from a commercial radio station. Further, the activation-sensing unit 40 may be powered by way of the receiving antenna 46 receiving radio signals from a commercial radio station. Optionally, a capacitor of sufficient storage size may be housed within the activation-sensing unit 40 in order to provide power. Further, a capacitor may be housed within the main body 48 of the remote activation assembly 16 and electrically connected to the CPU 50. Alternatively, the remote activation assembly 16 may be electrically connected to a standard electrical outlet, or it may be battery powered.

FIG. 7 illustrates a remote activation assembly 120 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The remote activation assembly 120 includes a solar cell 122 that is in electrical communication with the CPU 124. The remote activation assembly 120 may be powered through solar power. The solar cell 122 may be mounted at various positions of the remote activation assembly and may be electrically connected to an internal power reservoir, the coin/bill acceptor, and the like. Similarly, the activation-sensing unit 40 may also be electrically connected to, and receive power from, a solar cell.

Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, a player inserts currency into the remote activation assembly 16 through the bill acceptor 52 and/or the coin acceptor 54. Once the currency is input into the remote activation assembly 16, the CPU 50 determines the amount entered. If the input amount is sufficient for game play, the CPU 50 sends an activation signal to the activation-sensing unit 40 through the transmitting antenna 58 when the play button 56 is depressed. The activation-sensing unit 40 then opens the gate 30, thereby causing the balls 28 to pass to the access area 36. If the input amount is insufficient for game play, the CPU 50 does not send an activation signal to the activation-sensing unit 40.

FIG. 3 illustrates a flow chart for activating a pool system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. At 62, a player inputs currency into the remote activation assembly 16. At 64, the remote activation assembly 16 determines whether the input amount is sufficient for game play. If the amount is sufficient, the remote activation assembly 16 transmits an activation signal to the activation-sensing unit 40, which is housed within the pool table 12 at 66. If, however, the amount is insufficient, the remote activation assembly 16 does not transmit an activation signal to the activation-sensing unit 40 at 68.

The activation-sensing unit 40 opens the gate 30 at 70 once it receives the activation signal. At 72, the balls 28 then pass to the access area 36 where a player may then remove the balls 28 from the pool table 12 and place the balls 28 on the playing surface.

FIG. 4 illustrates a pool ball 28 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The pool ball 28 may be any pool ball (e.g., an 8-ball, 9-ball, cue ball, and the like). Embedded within the ball 28 is a detectable device 74. The detectable device 74 may be a transmitting or receiving antenna or microchip, a metallic security tag, a magnet, an ultrasonic emitter or sensor, or various other such devices capable of transmitting or receiving a signal in relation to a corresponding detector (e.g., a receiving or transmitting antenna, an electromagnetic sensor, an ultrasonic detector, and the like). Preferably, the detectable device 74 is a radio frequency coded antenna embedded within each ball 28 during a ball manufacturing process.

In order to ensure smooth and even movement of the pool ball 28, the detectable device 74 is preferably symmetrically positioned about the center of gravity of the pool ball 28. Optionally, the detectable device 74 may be various shapes and sizes and may be embedded within the pool ball 28 at various positions.

FIG. 5 illustrates a simplified representation of a ball return and scoring system 76 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 76 is located within the main body of the pool table 12. The system includes a series of tubes, channels or the like (hereinafter “tubes”) 78. The tubes 78 connect the pockets 22 to the ball retention compartment 26.

Ball sensors 80 are positioned over a portion of the tubes 78. Optionally, each pocket 22 may include a ball sensor 80. While two ball sensors 80 are shown, the system 76 may include more ball sensors 80. Optionally, the system 76 may include one ball sensor 80 located over the tube 78′ that connects directly to the ball retention compartment 26. The sensors 80 are in communication with a central processing unit (CPU) 82, which is in turn in operative communication with a scoring display 84. The sensors 80 relay ball sensing data to the CPU 82 when the balls 78 pass through the sensors 80. The CPU 82 then analyzes the ball sensing data and displays scoring information based on the ball sensing data on the scoring display 84.

The sensors 80 may be radio frequency sensors that sense a radio frequency output of a detectable device 74 within a particular ball 28 as it passes through (or proximate) a sensor 80. Optionally, the detectable device 74 may be a magnet and the sensors 80 may be an electromagnetic sensing unit that detects the electromagnetic field produced by the magnet within the ball 28 as it passes through (or proximate) the sensor 80. Optionally, the sensors 80 may be configured to detect ultrasonic frequencies output by the detectable devices 74. Various types of detection systems may be used with various types of signal output devices known in the art. Each detectable device 74 may output a specific signal, such as a particular radio frequency. Thus, each ball 28 may include a detectable device 74 outputting a unique signal.

Alternatively, the balls 28 may be detected through optical sensors. Each ball 28 may include a particular distinguishing mark located somewhere on its outer surface. For example, the detectable device may be a bar code located on the surface of a ball 28. The distinguishing mark may also be the number on the ball and/or ball color or color configuration (e.g., striped or solid). Each ball may include a unique distinguishing mark that is distinct from marks on other balls. Each distinguishing mark may be associated with a particular ball. The sensors 80 may be optical sensors, such as laser, infrared emitters, or the like. The optical sensors may be capable of reading bar codes, numbers, and/or ball colors, stripes, and the like. The unique signal output may be the distinguishing mark that is detected by the optical sensor.

Regardless of the type of signal output by a ball 28 (e.g., an RF signal, a distinguishing mark, and the like), the CPU 82 correlates the unique signal with a particular ball 28. For example, the 8 ball may output a signal at a first radio frequency, while a cue ball may output a signal at a second frequency, and the 9 ball may output a signal at a third radio frequency, and so on. The CPU 82 distinguishes between balls 28 through the detection of different signals.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart for a method of providing a pool table system that is capable of automatically scoring a game of pool according to an embodiment of the present invention. At 86, pool balls 28 are manufactured with embedded detectable devices 74. Each detectable device 74 outputs a unique signal that is different than any other detectable device 74. Each ball 28 is associated with a unique signal that is output by a detectable device embedded within the particular ball 28.

A pool table is manufactured having at least one ball sensor 80 positioned proximate a ball return line at 88. As the pool balls 28 pass through the ball return line, the ball sensor(s) 80 relays a data signal indicative of the detectable device embedded within the pool ball 28 to a CPU 82 as the ball 28 passes by the ball sensor(s) 80 at 90. The CPU 82 then analyzes the received data signal and associates the received data signal with a particular pool ball 28 at 92. The CPU 82 then updates a game score based on the received data signal on a score display 84 at 94.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic representation of a system for remote activation of game units 200. The system 200 includes an information management system 201 in communication with an entertainment unit 202 and an entertainment information unit 203, which may be separate and distinct from the information management system 201. The information management system 201 may optionally store information about the operation of an entertainment unit 202. The entertainment information unit 203 is in communication with at least one entertainment unit 202. The entertainment information unit 203 may be used to remotely activate one or more entertainment units 202 and/or to store information, such as the results of a game played at an entertainment unit. Information from the entertainment information unit 203 may be transmitted to the information management system 201 to be stored on a computer database 204.

The entertainment unit 202 may be a pool table, dart machine, prediction-based game (such as “fantasy football”), a hockey-based game, a foosball table, or the like. Optionally, the entertainment unit 202 may be equipped with a receiver 205 to receive an activation signal and/or other information from the entertainment information unit 203 and/or information management system 201. The entertainment unit 202 may also be equipped with a transmitter 206 to transmit information (such as availability for use or game scores) to the entertainment information unit 203 and/or to the information management system 201.

The information management system 201 includes a CPU 207 which is connected to one or more input devices 208 via a standard connection such as Universal Serial Bus (USB). The input device 208 may comprise a standard computer keyboard, mouse, keypad, touchscreen or the like. The input device 208 may allow a user to, among other things, select, reserve and remotely activate an entertainment unit 202 from among available entertainment units, or to input game score information upon completion of play. Game score information may include information such as the score of the match, the winning and losing individuals or teams, the entertainment unit where the match was played, and the date and time the game was played.

The input device 208 and CPU 207 may be connected to a display screen 210 and power source 211. The display screen 210 can be used for many purposes, including: displaying game unit availability; allowing a user to select from available game units; displaying game score information and league standings. The display screen 210 may also display advertising or other pertinent messages associated with the bar or game parlor. Optionally, the information management system 201 may be integrated with a jukebox (not shown) and/or a dart game machine, such as shown and described in U.S. application Ser. No. 10/073,486, which was previously incorporated by reference in its entirety. For example, the input device 208 and display screen 210 may assist the user in selecting music, game stations, or the like, which can connect to an audio data decoder to respond to the user's choice of music. Additionally, the information management system 201 may be integrated with a system of organizing a predictions based game, such as described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/660,487, previously incorporated by reference. The input device 208 and display screen 210 may assist the user in inputting and/or viewing predictions in relation to a sporting event, such as the outcome of a match, the score, the individual performance of players, or other similar statistical or outcome-based predictions.

The information management system 201 may include a transmitting antenna 212 and a receiving antenna 214. These may be used to communicate with the entertainment information unit 203 and/or one or more entertainment units 202.

In addition, the information management system 201 may include an input-output control board 230, which is operatively connected to or integrated with the CPU 207. The input-output control board 230 can coordinate the reception and transmission of signals from a plurality of entertainment units 202 and/or the entertainment information unit 203.

The information management system 201 may also be connected to a remote computer network 228. Connecting the information management system 201 to a remote network 228 allows for remote access (for example, via the World Wide Web) of game score information and other information compiled in the computer database 204 of the information management system 201. This allows for users and interested persons to view game score information, and, if desired, to generate league standing information. If desired, users could also communicate with the information management system 201 to reserve and select from available game units prior to arriving at the arcade, bar, or game parlor. Connection to the remote computer network may be by standard methods such as Internet Protocol or the like.

The entertainment information unit 203 may comprise a control board 220 connected to a power source 222, a currency acceptor 224, and other input/output devices 226. The currency acceptor 224 may receive bills and or coins to activate a pay-for-play entertainment unit 202. In addition, when configured with a user input device and a display screen, the entertainment information unit 203 can allow players to, among other things, reserve or select from among available entertainment units 202 for play. The power source 222 can be configured to receive power from a wall outlet, from a single battery or series of batteries, a solar power cell, or the like. The configuration may vary depending upon whether it is convenient to attach the power source 222 to an electrical outlet, or whether the entertainment information unit 203 is positioned such that electrical attachment is inconvenient—for example, if the entertainment information unit 203 is to be portable within the bar or gaming establishment.

The entertainment information unit 203 may further comprise a transmitting antenna 216 and a receiving antenna 218. The transmitting antenna 216 allows for transmission of information, such as an activation signal, to an entertainment unit receiving antenna 205. The entertainment unit 202 may include an activation sensing-unit such as activation-sensing unit 40 in FIG. 1 and already described herein. The activation-sensing unit may send an activation signal to an entertainment unit 202 in order to activate the entertainment unit 202 for operation. Upon activation for operation, the entertainment unit 202 may be programmed to confirm that the unit is ready for operation. For example, the entertainment unit 202 may be programmed to illuminate an LED indicator light on the unit (not shown), or emit an audio tone to confirm that the entertainment unit 202 has received an activation signal and is ready for operation. The entertainment information unit 203 allows for collection and receipt of payment, as well as coordination and selection of entertainment units 202, to occur at one convenient location. Because the entertainment unit 202 could be activated by a remote activation signal rather than through input of currency into a currency acceptor, less power may be required for each entertainment unit 202 in order to remain ready and/or to activate operation of the unit. This is beneficial to extend battery life for entertainment units 202 that are battery-powered or not otherwise connected to an electrical outlet. The entertainment information unit 203 may thus allow for a central and an efficient location to collect funds for game play.

In FIG. 8, transmissions from the entertainment unit 202 to the entertainment information unit 203 and/or information management system 201 may include a signal to verify receipt of a previous radio transmission, such as an activation signal. This transmission may be accompanied by a corresponding message on a display screen connected to the entertainment information unit 203 or information management system 201, indicating that the desired entertainment unit 202 is ready for use.

Additionally, an entertainment unit 202 may transmit, to the entertainment information unit 203 and/or information management system 201, game score information upon completion of a match, so that the game score can be electronically stored in a computer database 204. The game score may be automatically computed and transmitted without human intervention, if the particular game unit 202 is equipped with an automatic scoring feature, such as that depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6 for a pool table.

Alternatively, information about the operation of an entertainment unit 202, such as a game score, may be input by a user through an input device located at either the entertainment unit 202, the entertainment information unit 203, or the information management system 201. If the information is input at either the entertainment unit 202 or the entertainment information unit 203, the information may be subsequently transmitted to the information management system 201 for storage in a computer database 204. Entering game score information at the entertainment unit 202, either by means of an automatic scoring or by an input device located at the entertainment unit 202 (not shown), may be preferable in some instances to avoid heavy congestion of users near the entertainment information unit 203 and/or the information management system 201.

To save equipment costs and power at entertainment unit 202, the system 200 may alternatively include only one-way communications from the information management system 201 and/or entertainment information unit 203 to the entertainment unit 202. This embodiment allows for the desirable features of remote activation but without the need for additional equipment and power to transmit information from the entertainment unit 202 to the information management system 201 and/or entertainment information unit 203. However, this embodiment may still allow centralized storage of game score information, for example, if upon completion of a match, players or parlor staff enter game score information through an input device operatively connected to the information management system 201. For embodiments employing one-way communications from the information management system 201 and/or entertainment information unit 203 to the entertainment unit 202, redundant communications may be used in order to ensure that the entertainment unit 202 receives the activation signal and is properly activated for use.

As shown in FIG. 8 and described above, communications between an entertainment information unit 203, an information management system 201, and one or more entertainment units 202 may be enabled. Preferably, communications can occur by means of radio frequency transmissions, for example, on the low power ISM bands between 315 MHz and 433.92 MHz, as prescribed by FCC part 15. The radio transmissions may also employ standard encryption technology, such as those employed in other remote activation devices such as garage door openers and auto theft detection alarms. Alternatively, the information management system 201, the entertainment information unit 203, and entertainment units 202 may communicate through a variety of wired and wireless communication systems, such as modems, bus lines, Ethernet connections, “wi-fi” systems, and the like.

Returning to FIG. 8, in some embodiments the entertainment unit 202 may be equipped with a currency acceptor (not shown). This allows users to activate and use the entertainment unit 202 in situations where the entertainment information unit 203 and/or information management system 201 is inoperative. Optionally, the currency acceptor may be a device configured to read magnetic strips, such as those from credit cards. As such, the entertainment unit 202 may be configured to receive payment through a debit card or credit card.

FIG. 9 illustrates a coin slide 250 that may be used in embodiments of the present invention. The coin slide 250 may be initially fabricated using a standard, off-the-shelf coin slide mechanism, such as those that may be purchased in bulk from a variety of different vendors, and are frequently used to collect game fees for parlor games such as pool tables. In FIG. 9, the coin slide 250 comprises a standard slide mechanism 252 with coin slots 254 on a mounting bracket 256. In the example embodiment shown, the bottom of the coin slots 254 is visible; coins may be inserted from the top. The coin lockout pawls 258 ensure the proper movement of the coin slide mechanism 252 to activate the game when the appropriate game fee is inserted.

The coin slide 250 may further comprise a permanent magnet 260, an electromagnet 262, and a lockout pawl commoning bar 263. An electrical pulse to the electromagnet 262 operates to change the magnetic field and to cause a lockout pawl pull down lever 264 to move. When the lockout pawl pull down lever 264 moves, it allows the slide mechanism 252 to operate in the same manner as if a user had inserted the proper game fee into the coin slots 254. In this way, the coin slide 250 allows activation of a parlor game unit via at least two different methods: insertion of the appropriate game fee into coin slots 254, and/or via an electrical pulse sent to the electromagnet 262. Further, the electromagnet 262 may be actuated upon the entertainment unit receiving a remote activation signal. Thus, the coin slide 250 may be used with a system for remote activation of game units, such as the system 200 shown in FIG. 8. Alternatively, the entertainment unit configured with a coin slide 250 as shown in FIG. 9 may be activated upon insertion of the proper game play fee. The coin slide 250 shown in FIG. 9 is further advantageous because it requires little electrical power to maintain state, resulting in longer battery life if the coin slide 250 is not connected to an electrical outlet. An electrical pulse, rather than continuous power, is required to alter the state of the coin slide 250 to allow activation of an entertainment unit or to reset the entertainment unit to prevent activation until a game play fee is inserted and/or a remote activation signal is received.

While the systems and methods discussed above relate to standard pool tables, embodiments of the present invention may be used with various types of pool-type games, including, but not limited to, billiards, snooker, and bumper pool. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention may also be used with foosball tables, basketball and football based games in which a player throws balls at a hoop and/or target, air or table hockey games, or various other parlor games commonly found in bars and arcades.

Embodiments of the present invention may also be used with a combination dart and jukebox machine, such as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 10/073,486, which was previously incorporated by reference. For example, the information management system 201 may communicate with and store activation information and game or music play information in the computer database 204. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention may also be used with a predictions based game, such as described in U.S. Provisional Application 60/660,487, previously incorporated by reference. For example, the information management system 201 may store game information from the prediction based game, in combination with other game information and/or league standings for other types of games. This may be desirable, for example, to allow teams or individuals to access their scores and league standings in the variety of leagues in which the individuals or teams compete. In addition, combining the information management system 201 with a prediction based game may allow league play and league standings where individuals or teams compete in both the prediction based game as well as another parlor game, such as pool or darts.

Thus, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for activating a pool table through a remote activation device. The remote activation device may accept coins or bills. Further, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for automatically scoring a game of pool.

While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. 

1. A parlor entertainment system comprising: an entertainment unit; an information management system having a processor operatively connected to a database; and an entertainment information unit in communication with at least one of said information management system and said entertainment unit; wherein said entertainment information unit is operable to input information regarding the operation of said entertainment unit into said database.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein said system comprises an activation unit that is operable to transmit an activation signal that is received by an activation-sensing unit connected to said entertainment unit and wherein said activation sensing-unit is operable to allow a user to operate said entertainment unit when said activation-sensing unit receives said activation signal.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein said entertainment information unit is in communication with both said entertainment unit and said information management system.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein said entertainment information unit and said information management system are contained within the same housing.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein said entertainment unit, said entertainment information unit, and said information management system are contained within the same housing.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein said entertainment unit is a dart game machine.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein said entertainment unit is a jukebox.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein information regarding the operation of said entertainment unit includes the results of game play on said entertainment unit.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein said entertainment unit is a predictions-based game system.
 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising an input device located at said information management system.
 11. The system of claim 1, further comprising an input device located at said entertainment unit.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein said input device comprises at least one of a keypad and a touchscreen.
 13. The system of claim 1, wherein said entertainment unit is at least one of a pool table, foosball table, an air hockey table, a basketball-based game, a football based game, a dart machine, and a hockey-based game.
 14. The system of claim 1, wherein at least two of said entertainment unit, said entertainment information unit, and said information management system communicate via a radio frequency transmission.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein said radio frequency transmission is between 315 MHz and 433.92 MHz.
 16. The system of claim 2, wherein receipt of said activation signal by said activation-sensing unit is confirmed by a reception indicator.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein said reception indicator comprises an audio tone.
 18. The system of claim 16, wherein said reception indicator comprises an indicator light.
 19. The system of claim 16, wherein said reception indicator comprises a message on a visual display screen operatively connected to said information management system.
 20. The system of claim 2, wherein said activation unit sends a redundant activation signal to ensure reception of said activation signal by said activation-sensing unit.
 20. The system of claim 1, wherein said information management system is operatively connected to a display screen.
 21. The system of claim 1, wherein said information management system is adapted to receive information about the operation of said entertainment unit from an automatic scoring processor.
 22. The system of claim 1, wherein said computer database is connected to a computer network to allow remote access to stored information regarding the operation of one or more of said entertainment units.
 23. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said entertainment unit or said entertainment information unit is operatively connected to a coin slide mechanism containing an electromagnet.
 24. A method of managing information related to operation of an entertainment unit, the method comprising: linking an entertainment information unit to an entertainment unit that is separate and distinct from the entertainment information unit; and transferring information regarding the operation of said entertainment unit into a centralized database.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the entertainment unit is a jukebox.
 26. The method of claim 24, wherein the entertainment unit is a dart game machine.
 27. The method of claim 24, wherein the information regarding operation of the entertainment unit comprises the results of game play at the entertainment unit.
 28. The method of claim 24, wherein the entertainment unit is a predictions-based game system.
 29. The method of claim 24, wherein the entertainment unit is at least one of a pool table, a foosball table, an air hockey table, a basketball-based game, a football based game, a dart machine, and a hockey-based game. 